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Negresa – a simple and delicious dessert, perfect for any occasion

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Negresa is a dessert that brings joy and nostalgia in every bite. Soft, moist, and rich in flavors, this cake is ideal to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or tea. It is said that negresa gained popularity among homemakers due to its simplicity in preparation and accessible ingredients, making it a beloved dessert for generations. Whether you prepare it for a party, a gathering with friends, or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will help you achieve a perfect result.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of ground walnuts
- ½ cup of raisins
- 1 cup of water
- ½ cup of oil
- 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 essence of vanilla or rum
- a few drops of lemon juice
- 200 ml of whipped cream (for decoration)
- fruit-flavored sugar decoration (for finishing)

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Make sure you have everything you need at hand: flour, sugar, walnuts, raisins, cocoa, water, oil, essence, baking powder, and whipped cream. You can grind the walnuts at home for a fresh and aromatic texture, and you can soak the raisins in warm water to make them fluffier.

2. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This step is essential to ensure even baking of the negresa.

3. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, ground walnuts, raisins, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to combine the dry ingredients. This mix will give the negresa a rich and delicious texture.

4. In another bowl, combine the liquids: water, oil, vanilla essence or rum, and a few drops of lemon juice. Mix well until everything is homogenized.

5. Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until you achieve a uniform composition. Be careful not to overmix, as the negresa will be fluffier if you don't stir excessively.

6. Prepare a baking tray (about 20x30 cm) and line it with baking paper. This step helps to prevent the cake from sticking and makes it easier to remove from the tray.

7. Pour the mixture into the tray and level the surface with a spatula. Now is the time to ensure that the negresa will bake evenly.

8. Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45 minutes. Check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the negresa is ready. If not, leave it in the oven for a few more minutes.

9. Once baked, remove the negresa from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. In the meantime, you can prepare the decoration. Whip the cream until it becomes firm. You can add a little powdered sugar for extra sweetness, depending on your preferences.

11. When the negresa has completely cooled, spread the whipped cream on top, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This step not only adds a creamy touch but also a contrast of textures.

12. Finally, sprinkle the fruit-flavored sugar decoration on top, giving the negresa a colorful and appealing appearance. This detail will make the dessert not only delicious but also visually attractive.

Practical tips:

- You can add other ingredients of your choice, such as dark chocolate or hazelnuts, to vary the recipe.
- If you are a fan of bold flavors, try adding a few drops of orange essence for a fresh taste.
- Negresa can be served warm or cold, and if you want an even more decadent dessert, we recommend serving it alongside vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional benefits:

Negresa contains healthy ingredients, such as walnuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, while natural cocoa brings antioxidants. Additionally, raisins provide a good source of fiber and minerals such as potassium and iron. However, since this is a sweet cake, it is advisable to consume it in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I substitute oil with butter?
Yes, you can use melted butter instead of oil, but make sure it is at room temperature so it does not affect the texture of the mixture.

2. How can I keep the negresa fresh?
Keep the negresa in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. You can freeze it for longer storage.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Of course! Whole wheat flour will add a distinct flavor and a denser texture, but you may need to adjust the amount of water.

Ideal pairings:

Negresa pairs perfectly with a warm drink, such as coffee or a flavored tea. You can also accompany it with vanilla ice cream or chocolate sauce to add an extra layer of flavor.

In conclusion, negresa is a versatile and easy-to-make dessert, ideal for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and let your creativity shine through your variations. Enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones!